Pitching Africa in the city. A must attend event for all Africans in Diaspora.

Event dates:  April 23, 2013, 5.30pm – 9.30pm

Venue:           Cass Business School, London EC1Y 8TZ

Organisers: African Peoples Advocacy and Developed Africa.com

Details:
Prominent members of the African Diaspora will brief City investors about innovative and lucrative ideas for Africa’s development at Cass Business School on 23 April 2013.

It has been just talk and no work from the Diaspora on finding ways to move Africa forward in terms of development. This time African sons and daughters are out to make sure that the practical approach to getting investors right into Africa is taken seriously hence this event. This is aimed at giving investors and businesses tips on the practical steps they can take to boost their presence in the African market and how they can engage with Africa Diaspora professionals to take advantage of ongoing and forth coming development opportunities in Africa.

Ben Oguntala, CEO of DevelopedAfrica.com, an online resource which will allow international companies unprecedented access to commercial development opportunities in African countries. Mr Oguntala will outline the usefulness of this resource to companies already operating in Africa, and to those seeking to move into this expanding market.

Also speaking at the event is Sylvie Aboa-Bradwell, CEO of the UK-based think tank African Peoples Advocacy (APA). She will brief attendees about the documentary Leading Lions, which APA is currently producing. The documentary follows four outstanding members of the African Diaspora, including several panellists, as they work and implement their ground breaking ideas in the City, London, Africa and elsewhere. Ms Aboa-Bradwell will discuss how investors and business people can position themselves at the forefront of the positive transformation of Africa by participating in the Leading Lions project.

There will also be interventions from Didier Meledje, president of Alpha Professional Network (APN), and Justine Lutterodt, co-founder of the Africa Women’s Circle. Mr Meledje will highlight the need for investors to engage with APN in order to gain invaluable insights into African as well as other emerging and frontiers markets. Ms Lutterodt will outline how businesses can tap into the Africa Women’s Circle’s unique pool of leading and inspiring women with a passion for Africa.

Henry Bonsu, Colourful Radio director, and narrator of the Leading Lions documentary, will chair the briefing. Speaking on the event, He says, ‘I am excited to preside over this unique mobilisation of the African Diaspora aimed at engaging businesses in order to boost Africa's development'

The event will also feature an exhibition by businesses with services related to the African market; a showcasing of African Diaspora services to the City, and a drinks reception.

Sylvie Aboa-Bradwell, who is organising the briefing in collaboration with Ben Oguntala, said: ‘This is an unmissable opportunity for astute investors to get ahead of the game in Africa, and participate in the positive transformation of Africa in the 21^st century.’  

To register your attendance for this event go here for more information email

So Mo, have you run before? How can a person ever ask such a question?

It's so annoying isn't it when TV presenters and anchors ask silly questions. Especially when it involves a world star. Mo honestly must have been embarrassed after winning those gold medals in the Olympic coupled with all his success in races. Only to be faced with the most embarrassing interview of his life. That goes to say US citizens don't ever see beyond their borders even with CNN and all those channels in their shores.

The death of a Nollywood legend Justus Esiri

RIP ESIRI

Another Nollywood legend dies and the hole in our hearts deepens. It has been a very difficult time for the industry - Nigeria's movie industry with so many loved and great actors gone through out 2012. It has been tough as well for us fans as much for their friends and families.
Mr Esiri was one of the great pioneers of Nollywood with him being famously remembered as the village headmaster in the 80's TV series.  He went on to grace our screens with his numerous roles in major Nigeria movies countless to be numbered. We truly are heart broken and will continue to miss him and his unique acting skills so good that you forget he is just acting.
Adieu Esiri.

My Romance with fashion evolution at London Fashion week: Review by Lissa Maranga.

I am the new kid on the block and have been tasked by the team to inform you of an event we at C.Hub attended in London this February, Fashion Finest London Fashion Week.(FFLFW).

A complete novice in the Fashion world (don't get me wrong am keen on the latest trend and try to keep up) but I only see fashion shows on TV. So this to me was a very exciting time.

Needless to say I was there long before the event started and when the time came for lights camera action ... I was not disappointed! I mean being in the same room as some amazing designers and models (including our very own, C Hub Fashion Editor Gayle Thompson) was enough to keep my mouth open all afternoon.

The first part of the show included a cocktail of 5 designers who were about to teach me that 21st century fashion in touch with reality and very open to new ideas.  Picture this ...

First on the catwalk was ITSY BITSY VINTAGE who specialised in lingerie wear with a twist ..... Not your everyday knickers and bra but an elegant yet quacky underwear with some of them excluding the top cover and just settling for frills on the nipple!!! What was unique about these outfits was that they were glamorous and green (not colour but environmentally friendly) .... And that was just the beginning. 
Next to grace the catwalk was BRIAN CHAN.  CHAN'S work took me to a junction that felt like Art and Fashion had collided with a massive Big Bang! The crowd went crazy from his very first outfit,whilst I on the other hand was still coming to terms with why the models appeared to have walked through a paint room. Their outfits were dotted with paint and they also had bags either incorporated with their outfits or held in their hands. Some had crazy hats on, bbq racks on their heads with what appeared to look like spray cans and paint brushes. It was such a captivating show with so much creativity and gorgeous clothes.

SARA HEGAZY originally from Dubai was next and her line of design was for the evening look. Sara uses luxurious fabrics to create a very bespoke line. With a rich variety of different designs, this collection boasted of both long and short dresses.  One that particularly stood out for me was a black see through long dress modelled by C Hub's Gayle, that was extremely daring yet very elegant.(Only to be seen in side C.Hub issue 3) 

CHICO DE BARRIO followed and for the better part of his showcasing there was no music but a speech! This, I quickly found out was because his designs are influenced by animal instincts. The message was centred around freedom, peace and humanity. "It's a way to be, a way of life", the speaker said. Showcased by male models, Chico's collection lived up to this concept as most (if not all) of the outfits screamed freedom or free to be me!

Gayle Thompson C.Hub Fashion Editor
Walks the run way at FFLFW 2013

Lastly JOCELYN DEE's outfits took to the floor and chic is the word that came to mind. Her very young and made to measure designs were paraded to the applauding crowds. This British designer is definitely one to watch.

By this point I obviously wanted more but the show was over,or at least for now. I had about an hour and a half to digest the magnificence I had just experienced at my very first ever fashion show event, Amazing!!! I posted on my Facebook status and boy I meant it.

For the second part of the show which had two designers to display their works,I wanted to be as close to the action as I possibly could, so I secured myself a front row seat.  The evening event was by Jamaican designers so I didn't know what to expect. Coconut themed, floral, or God knows?I decided to relax and wait for the lights camera action moment again which happened at quarter to six exactly. 

The H.O.D by GREGORY WILLIAMS started the ball rolling with a mixture of official but mainly casual gorgeous party dresses.A very flamboyant character, Gregory uses lace and light material to create this fine and fun line.


To close this show was a JAMAICAN COLLECTIVE that started with some beautifully seamed maxi dresses worn with heels!! ( I thought that look was great).  My eyes widened and mouth opened when model after model marched forward with these lime, pink, sky blue and other light coloured long free flowing stunning dresses that made me wish it was summer! The office look from this collection was also divine with clever use of bright colours including my favourite colour of red. But the show stopper of this day was a 'red carpet style' black sequin gown that was modelled by a Jamaican model who was specifically imported to wear this outfit. The dress received a standing ovation before the designer behind the creations joined the rest of the models to accept the appreciation from the crowd.

And just like that, London Finest fashion week was over but for me something new had just started, my interest in fashion was born.

Image credits to NG Photography. 

Stay with C.Hub in the next issue for more tittle tattle from your spring fashion week all over the capital . Next issue is due in April don't miss it.

Win a HillMotts retreat with Brides of culture details here

Win a 3 Day Boot Camp Break at Hillmotts Retreat On  March 23rd Brides of Culture will host a special prize draw for the chance to win a 3 Day Boot Camp Retreat at one of the UK's top retreats. The winner will win a 3 day stay bootcamp package at a retreat, worth 399 and can bring a friend for just 149. To be in with a chance of winning attend Brides of Culture - REGISTER HERE ----------------------- Full details of prize: During your visit with us you will be treated with a very personal touch as we like to ensure everyone gets attention and most of all that you enjoy your stay with us. You'll enjoy 3 days full of exercise, education and activities Following your stay you will be given a detailed departure pack including nutritional advice, fitness advice and 100s of recipes. We will ensure you go away with the ability to continue to improve your fitness and once you've visited with us we are here for you whenever you need us for support, we don't just say goodbye at the door! 2013 Boot camps are offered in the following locations: Dorset Cotswolds Peak district Package Includes o Outdoor Based Fitness, Boxing, Yoga, Circuits, Cardio, Core Zumba, Pilates and many more! o You will get talks on nutrition/diet and how it affects your mood and energy levels o All your meals whilst staying with us are included in the price. You'll come out with a better understanding of small changes you can make to your diet and fitness regimes that will make a big difference to your life o During your time you'll be challenged physically whilst enjoying the beautiful scenery at our lovely locations o You will stay in quad rooms o After your 3 day stay we'll give you a detailed departure pack including recipes o Valid for Monday - Wednesday ONLY Black out dates are any school holiday ------------------

Oya: Rise of the Orishas by Nosa Igbinedion. A never seen before.

Oya:  Rise of the Orishas is an exciting action packed film, written and directed by Nosa Igbinedion. The film resurrects mythical deities from African folklore, known as Orishas, into modern-day superheroes in Britain. The film will be presented In a visually unique style drawing inspiration from related genres, including sci-fi, action and martial arts and presenting a truly phenomenal spectacle in the art of film.

According to the Yoruba religion of Nigeria [West Africa] Orishas are a collective of charismatic deities with specialised supernatural gifts, powers and responsibilities.  Tradition has it that these supernatural beings once walked the earth with humanity.  "We will tell a story that has not been heard before and discover worlds that have not yet been explored in Black British Cinema. These rich worlds and stories have been carried in peoples minds for millennia and told mostly orally. Amazingly, this culture has not been visualised on the British silver screen, until now". Director: Nosa Igbinedion Producer: Joy Gharoro-Akpojotor Associate Producer: Sheila Nortley Attend the  Crowd Funding Campaign   If you want to see an epic movie on a topic that has never been explored before in the history of western Cinema, GET INVOLVED.   We will be running a crowd funding campaign to fund the initial short taster and to prove that there is a market for this type of film. For each contribution our supporters make, there are some great rewards, from being an extra in the film to getting a special mention in the credits. The crowd-funding campaign will go live from Thursday 28th February 2013 at 12pm GMT. For more information contact: joy@dreamcoatproductions.com Or visit the website WEBSITE: http://www.oyariseoftheorishamovie.com/

It's all glam and love. London fashion week for you every corner you don't need an invite to get the feel. This is how!

Image Courtesy : Suby sinem

I love London always for all that it has given the world and continues to give. One thing with London if you don't know is it happens for everyone where ever corner you are. Oh well, if you haven't got the invite to the London fashion week and you are feeling like going for a glam here are some of our favourite fashion hook ups for you this weekend and throughout the month/season.

Forest Hill Fashion week; Main Street, SE23. www.see3.co.uk 
At this London fashion week alternative, you see local traders and designers showcase, style and give sewing workshop along with catwalk shows giving the opportunity to buy directly from some of the locals most talented designers. This event is part of  a government funded scheme to revamp the area.






16th/17th
Fashion's Finest London fashion week:
Fashion's finest gives upcoming designers the opportunity to get their chance to showcase in London during the capitals fashion week. A great way to get these guys started. Happening on the 16th and 17th at The Westbury, 40 Conduit street , Mayfair London, W1S 2YF. More info: www.fashionsfinest.com

Saturday 16th
Retrospective catwalk fashion show:
Happening at Bloomsbury Ballroom, Bloomsbury Square , WC1B 4DA.
Check out the vintage looks from Dior, Pucci, Chanel and their likes strut the runway  showcasing  just glam and glam. Go see and buy. www.fashionretrospective.com 

Saturday 16th this
 Plus size Fashion week happening at Shoreditch Old Town Hall. 380 Old street, EC1v 9LT. It's a one day fair showcasing catwalk from plus size brands and you can also have a thrill of your life by participating in the clothes exchange at the swap shop. The moderators include top plus size blogger Lauren Ding, Pauline et Julie and Curvissa of Simply Be. More info: www.lpsfw.com

Heads up for the hat lovers: Date: Mon 18th 
Craft central shocasing awesome hat and shoe crafts at 33 - 35 John's square, EC1M 4DS. They are also giving free advice on making your own trimmings. info: wwwcraftcentral.org.uk

And then it's Designer Jumble pop up sale on 20th
Happening at 70 Lambs Conduit Street.and
Church of annunciation, Bryanston St, W1H 7AH.
See top Brit designers like Mulberry, Stella McCartney  Christian Louboutin jumble out their designs in what is almost a give away to all from prices as low as £10.00. They are giving all profits to charity too. Great one!

Image courtesy: eldimaafshion.com

23rd February at Mint Court Tower Hill London
The number one modelling competition for models of Colour in the world. Giving models from ethnic minority the opportunity to get the required exposure into the professional modelling industry. This year marking the season 7 of the event, there has been an unprecedented turn out of  3500 models in UK alone competing to be crowned the 'Top Model of Colour season 7.

It's the final count down for fashions finest London fashion week 2013 and here are the designers.

Fashions finest continues to bring diversity into London's fashion and life style. This season more than ever, Fashions finest has become the most sought after fashion event in the capital. Showcasing and helping upcoming yet very talented designers and models to get into the profession of fashion.

Date: 16th and 17th February 2013
Venue: The Westbury, 40 Conduit street , Mayfair London, W1S 2YF.

Here are some of our favourite designers showcasing at the event this season:

Laura Panther: Weston Super Mare.

Laura Panther (LP) fashion is a women's fashion brand that focuses on creating on and off pieces to suit a woman's perfection and style, enhancing and flattering her natural shape.


Bobby Egbele.
Bobafrique creates a clothing line that deeply mingles indigenous textiles with classic and trendy designs to create stylish, timeless, edgy yet wearable pieces inspired by colour ,art,music,nature warmth yet celebrating African cultural diversity through fashion.

Danielle Morgan
Danielle takes London to the edge with her cutting edge designs that can only be worn with an attitude. The whole package from its pattern cuts, to fabric sourcing, to is high quality designer wears bring the look good feel great to the wearer leaving them with a reflection of boldness and confidence. Effortlessly classic.

C.Hub fashion editor Gayle Thompson spotted in the same Rihanna Golden Globe red carpet Multi glam dress thanks to Aria's Boutique

It isn't coincidence that our very own Gayle Thompson got this multi glam dress before Rihanna. Yes when we said we got a new fashion editor we meant every word of it. What does that mean for you Ladies? Simple! C.Hub is now ready to hand pick the real deal for you.  Look out for our next issue so glammed up for you in all the fashion right angles. You don't wanna miss a thing.

What makes it even more of a big deal is Rihanna is rocking it on the Golden Globe red carpet. Don't our Gayle have a foresight?

Get your multi glam here

Ade Bakare showcasing at Brides of culture 2013.

Ade Bakare whose collections can only be seen on high end  boutiques such as Chic of Hampstead, Adele Davis of Bond street, Lucienne Phillips of Knightsbridge and Ambers of Amersham to name a few can now be confirmed in the line up of designers to showcase at Brides of Culture Exhibition 2013.

Bakare's collections are classic with a touch of modernity, drawing influences from architecture and colour making  his couture bridals highly sought after around the world.
This is a great news for fashion lover brides who truly have taste, what an excellent opportunity for them to come up and close with this design wizard.
Brides of culture 2013, will be taking place on the 23rd of March 2013 at the luxirious Hilton Hotel, Canary Wharf and it is a free entry event. However, to guarantee your place, you have to register your interest here